APRIL 6, 2 Peter 3:18

“Emma,” said Mom one Saturday morning, “I need to run to the supermarket for a few things , and I’d like you to take care of Andy while I’m gone.”

“Oh, Mom, do I have to? Can’t Robert do it?” asked Emma. “I want to finish a book I’m reading.” Mom frowned. Emma’s attitude toward her baby brother had changed after she learned that he would never be able to do some of the things other children do. She gave him less and less attention. She helped take care of him when she had to, but whenever possible, she busied herself with some other task.

“Emma,” Mom said, “You used to love to care for Andy and take him for walks in the park. Why don’t you want to do those things anymore?”

Emma blushed. “It… it just isn’t the same as before,” she stammered. “What isn’t the same, honey?” asked Mom.

“Andy’s not the same!” cried Emma. “He’s different from other babies. Taking care of him isn’t fun anymore.”

“Andy is the same,” Mom told her. “He’s still the same sweet baby he always was. I’m afraid you’re the one who has changed. You’re not the same sweet, happy girl you used to be.”

“But, Mom,” objected Emma, “you can’t blame me for being disappointed!”

“We’re all disappointed, Emma,” Mom replied, “but we didn’t all grow bitter. It disturbs me that you avoid taking care of Andy. You act as though you don’t really love him at all-as though you love only yourself. I hate to say this, but it seems to me that your bitterness seems to indicate that you are not growing spiritually. One measure of our spiritual growth is whether we grow in love for God and as well as for others. Are you growing in your love for Andy?”.

Emma was stunned. She had certainly never thought of herself that way, but she knew it was true. “Oh, Mom,” Emma sobbed after a minute, “I’m s-sorry! Here-give Andy to me! I’ll take care of him. I’ll hug him and love him and…” She buried her face in his neck.“Oh, Andy… you are sweet!” Mom smiled.“And so are you, honey,” she said.“You’re growing again.”

Thought: Growing spiritually is more important than growing physically and mentally.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to grow in grace, and in the knowledge of my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.